Leverages U.S. Inc. · 2 weeks ago
Automotive Fluid Systems Engineer Lead_Japanese Global Tier 1 _11068
Lemont, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$90K/yr - $100K/yr
5+ years expLeverages U.S. Inc. is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Automotive Fluid Systems Engineer Lead specializing in Automotive Fluids. This leadership role involves overseeing the development, optimization, and application of advanced automotive fluid technologies, managing a team of chemists and technicians, and providing technical support to OEM customers.
Staffing & Recruiting
Hiring Manager
HINAKO HAMASAKI
Responsibilities
Lead product application development and support technical service activities for engine coolants, brake fluids, and related automotive chemical products
This role is responsible for managing a small team of chemists and technicians, overseeing laboratory operations, work programs, supporting OEM customers, and ensuring full compliance with industry specifications—including ASTM D15 methods
Lead application testing, and commercial optimization of engine coolants, brake fluids, and other automotive chemical products
Oversee performance testing, certification, and compliance with applicable standards (e.g., ASTM D3306, D6210, D2570, D2809, D1121, D1287, and FMVSS 116 for brake fluids)
Direct root-cause investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives
Maintain expertise in base fluids, additive technologies, corrosion inhibitors, and heat transfer fluids
Support the development of PI sheets, specifications, MSDS and other documentation as required
Manage a small team of chemists and lab technicians; provide mentorship, coaching, and performance evaluations
Ensure that all laboratory work follows internal SOPs, safety protocols, and quality systems
Oversee laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration, and efficiency improvements
Provide technical support to field staff, OEMs, aftermarket customers, and global affiliates
Prepare technical reports, data, presentations, and documentation for customer reviews and audits
Support product approvals, field testing, and customer implementation
Work closely with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and global R&D teams
Coordinate regularly with colleagues in Japan; provide technical translation support where possible
Participate in cross-company initiatives, new business development efforts, and process improvements
Qualification
Required
Minimum bachelor's degree in chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related scientific field. Advanced degree preferred
5+ years of professional experience in automotive fluids (coolants, brake fluids, lubricants, or related chemistry)
Strong hands-on knowledge of ASTM D15 committee standards and related test methods
Experience working with or supporting automotive OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers
Proven ability to lead and develop technical staff in a laboratory environment
Strong technical writing, documentation, and communication skills
Preferred
Experience supervising technical staff, including responsibility for workload planning, coaching, and performance management
Japanese language skills (reading, writing, or conversational) to interface with global R&D teams
Experience with ISO 9001/14001, quality systems, or product approval processes
Experience with coolant additive packages, corrosion inhibitor chemistry, or heat-transfer fluids
Prior work in international organizations or joint ventures
Benefits
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Company
Leverages U.S. Inc.
Overview Leverages Group is a global company with over 20 locations in Japan and around the world, continuously growing since its founding.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase